Blog 2

          We recently visited the University of Pittsburgh's QoLT laboratories in Bakery Square.  These labs focus on the engineering of prosthetic limbs.  Dr. Brewer explained to us how many prosthetics work and where certain types would be more effective.  For example, babies and toddlers do not need a complicated mechanism, they really only need that allows them to perform basic functions like walking and eating, but some others need advanced prosthetics to perform their daily activities.

          I really enjoyed seeing the robotic aids that they were working on at their lab.  The researchers have really worked hard to not only make a robot that will help the owner, but also one that is easy enough to use that the owner would actually use it.  For example, Dr. Brewer was working on a robotic arm that can be used to assist those who either lost a limb or they have one that does not function to the highest ability, such as one in a stroke victim.  Dr. Brewer and her team made a “skin” for the robotic arm that knew when it was being touched.  When one grabs the arm, the skin recognizes it and becomes nearly weightless so that the user can easily place it where needed.  Innovations such as these show that the researchers are getting down to a personal level; they recognize that they must adapt the technologies to peoples everyday lives.  I really appreciate the researchers’ efforts and their innovations on such fascinating technology.

Blog 1

          I researched the TRS Black Iron Master and their Black Iron Trainer.  These prosthesis are used mainly for lifting weights.  I never thought about how a weight-lifter's career would be finished, if they lost part of an arm.  The Black Iron Master is intended for the serious weight-lifters who need a prosthetic.  It is designed for the professional level.  It features a swinging clamp with two pads so that it can securely grip the weight.  The prosthetic then locks onto it manually, via a wing nut.  There is no way for the prosthetic to open besides the manual release of the wing nut.  This prosthetic would be perfect for any serious weight-lifter eager to return to his/her sport.

          The Black Iron Trainer is designed for those looking to increase their own personal fitness, but are not quite on the professional level.  It is similar to the Black Iron Master, but it is lighter and can only handle lighter loads.  The mechanism is similar to that of the the professional version, but smaller and designed for every-day weight-lifters.  Overall I think that this prosthetic will give those, who are very dedicated to lifting, a new chance to perform their sport, or just generally stay in shape.  However, it does seem challenging to operate this prosthetic.  For example, the lifter must manually open and close the clamp and it does not seem that there is any mechanism for turning the "wrist."  This would make the physical process of lifting the weights more difficult.  Overall, if the athlete is dedicated enough, he or she could make this prosthetic work for them, but it would undoubtedly be a challenge.